The molecules will continue to spread out until they reach a state of?

The molecules will continue to spread out until they reach a state of equilibrium. In the context of gases, liquids, or solutes in solutions, equilibrium refers to a state where there is an equal distribution or concentration of particles throughout a space. In simple terms, it is a state where there is no net movement of particles from one area to another.

When molecules spread out, they move from areas of higher concentration to areas of lower concentration. This process is driven by the principle of diffusion. As molecules continue to move and collide, they eventually reach a point where their distribution is uniform, and there is no longer a concentration gradient. At this point, the system is in a state of equilibrium.

It's important to note that while individual molecules may still be in motion due to factors such as temperature, the overall distribution of particles remains constant in the absence of external influences. Equilibrium is a dynamic state, meaning that individual molecules are still moving, but there is no net change in concentration over time.